Syngenta introduces 102 corn hybrids for 2014 planting

Syngenta is adding to its pool of the most diverse corn genetics in the industry with the introduction of 102 corn hybrids for the 2014 planting season. Adding to an already robust portfolio of breakout Golden Harvest and NK brand hybrids, the lineup includes 60 hybrids containing new-to-market genetics. The additional 42 hybrids contain upgraded trait versions of proven high-performing genetics.

Twenty-four new hybrids contain the Agrisure Duracade trait, which will be offered in two trait stacks – Agrisure Duracade 5222 and Agrisure Duracade 5122 – for unmatched corn rootworm control. The Agrisure Duracade trait reduces beetle emergence by 99.79 percent, which is the highest reported reduction of any corn rootworm product on the market, according to USDA studies1. Sixteen of the Agrisure Duracade hybrids feature Agrisure Viptera technology; and eight hybrids contain a trait stack of Agrisure Duracade, Agrisure Viptera and Agrisure Artesian.

Agrisure Artesian technology, which maximizes yield when it rains and increases yield when it doesn’t, is included in 30 hybrids for the 2014 season. Widely adapted across all yield environments, Agrisure Artesian technology is included in hybrids with industry-leading genetics and best-in-class insect control and herbicide tolerance. Actual results in 2012 field research showed an even greater yield benefit of nearly 17 percent under severe and extreme drought conditions2.

New hybrids include 16 Agrisure Viptera 3111 hybrids for control of the multi-pest complex, a collection of yield- and quality-robbing insects that collectively cause $1.1 billion in annual losses for American corn growers, and 13 Agrisure Viptera 3110 hybrids for control of above-ground insects in environments where growers do not need to manage corn rootworm.

Eight hybrids containing either the Agrisure Viptera 3220, E-Z Refuge trait stack or the Agrisure 3122, E-Z Refuge trait stack will be available in 2014. These products feature a 5 percent integrated, single-bag refuge for Midwestern corn growers. The Agrisure Viptera 3220, E-Z Refuge trait stack offers dual modes of action to control corn borer and above-ground lepidopteran pests. Agrisure Viptera has been shown to protect corn against the development of mycotoxins, which cause an estimated $932 million in U.S. crop losses annually3. Hybrids with the Agrisure 3122, E-Z Refuge trait stack are intended for use in areas where both corn rootworm and lepidopteran pest management are primary concerns.

Nine new Enogen corn hybrids will be released for the 2014 season, two of which will include Agrisure Artesian technology. Enogen corn hybrids are bio-engineered to enhance the productivity and efficiency of dry grind ethanol production. Expressing alpha amylase enzyme in the corn kernel, they effectively reduce energy and water use in ethanol production plants and allow for an increase in alcohol yield and output. Enogen hybrids are only available to growers who have an Enogen contract, which requires specific grain segregation and stewardship.

“We are incredibly excited about our entire new class of hybrids for the 2014 season,” said Eric Boersma, head of corn seed product management at Syngenta. “Through new combinations, a broader genetic pool, and an innovative digital breeding process, Syngenta genetics have achieved an extraordinary rate of genetic gain over the past six years.”

Boersma added, “In addition to these exciting new hybrids, Syngenta has refined the seed sizing for Golden Harvest and NK corn hybrids to provide growers clarity in their seed purchasing decisions. All seed in 2014 will be in 80,000 kernel units, regardless of seed size.”